[43M] Experiencing severe headaches and neurological symptoms

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are a few possible conditions:

• Chronic Migraines: Your description of severe, constant headaches that worsen with light and sound exposure and mental exertion is consistent with chronic migraines. Migraines are a type of headache characterized by severe pain, often on one side of the head, and can be accompanied by other symptoms like sensitivity to light and sound.

  • Treatment usually involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medications to prevent or stop migraines, and sometimes cognitive behavioral therapy.

• Tinnitus: This is a condition characterized by the perception of noise or ringing in the ears. It's often associated with hearing loss, but it can also occur without any apparent cause. It can be worsened by stress or lack of sleep.

  • Treatment can involve addressing any underlying conditions that might be causing tinnitus, as well as certain therapies and medications.

• Post-Viral Fatigue Syndrome (PVFS): This is a condition that can occur after a viral infection, where fatigue and other symptoms last for a long time after the person has recovered from the virus. It's possible that your symptoms started after your viral infection and have persisted.

  • Treatment usually involves a combination of rest, graded exercise therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and sometimes medication.

Please note that these are only possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation.

What you can do

1. Keep a headache diary: Note down when your headaches occur, their intensity, and anything that might have triggered them. This can help you and your healthcare provider identify patterns and triggers.
2. Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule: Insufficient sleep or irregular sleep patterns can worsen headaches and tinnitus.
3. Limit exposure to loud noises: This can help manage your tinnitus.
4. Practice stress management techniques: Stress can exacerbate both migraines and tinnitus. Techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, and meditation can help manage stress levels.
5. Consult a healthcare professional: They can provide a proper evaluation and discuss potential treatment options with you.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your headache suddenly becomes severe and is different from your usual headaches.
• You experience new symptoms such as confusion, trouble speaking, vision problems, difficulty walking, or severe dizziness.
• Your symptoms are affecting your quality of life or ability to function.

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.